Gov. Snyder recall petition language approved

A group pushing to recall Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has gotten its petition language approved.

The Washtenaw County Board of Election Commissioners voted 2-1 Friday to approve the language, clearing the way for Michigan Citizens United to begin collecting signatures as planned on May 8.

The group must collect 806,522 valid signatures to qualify for the November ballot. Petitions can't be filed until July 1.

The petition language says the Republican governor should be recalled for supporting sweeping new powers for emergency financial managers, including throwing out labor agreements. It also cites his support for increasing taxes on retirees and low-income workers while substantially cutting business taxes.

The governor's spokeswoman said when the recall effort began last week that Snyder remains focused on turning around the state and its economy.